On Christmas evening in Burlington, Iowa, a community was shaken by the tragic death of Anthony DeCarlo Campbell, a 44-year-old Black man known affectionately as DJ Ant Bomb. Emergency services responded to a call at a residence on Madison Avenue at approximately 7:35 p.m. on December 25, 2024. Upon their arrival, they discovered Campbell near the back door of the home, having sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the head.
He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Campbell was a beloved and well-known figure in the Burlington area, recognized for his talents as a DJ, musician, and rapper. He was also celebrated for his generous spirit and commitment to his community. Among his notable contributions was the organization of annual back-to-school giveaways for underprivileged children, an effort that had earned him widespread admiration and respect. In October 2024, his musical talents were recognized with a nomination for an Iowa Music Award. Those who knew him remembered a kind and driven man who also worked as a barber, recording engineer, and youth mentor, always seeking to uplift those around him.
In the wake of the shooting, the Burlington Police Department, with assistance from the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, launched a thorough investigation. Their efforts quickly led to the identification and arrest of a suspect. Eric Christopher Rios, a 46-year-old resident of Burlington, was taken into custody and charged with first-degree murder in connection with Campbell's death. Rios subsequently entered a written plea of not guilty.
The community mourned the loss of a man who was not only a talented artist but also a devoted father, son, and friend. His passing left a significant void in the lives of his family and the many people he had positively influenced. The investigation into the circumstances of his death is considered ongoing.
